Photographing a Hidden Waterfall in the Scottish Highlands
Returning to the Scottish Highlands always feels like coming home and on this visit I finally made the long walk to a hidden waterfall I had been wanting to photograph for years.
A Glen of Secrets and Surprises
A few times each year I return to my homeland of the Scottish Highlands. These visits are always precious to me, giving me the chance to reconnect with my family, my roots, and the landscapes that I love. They also give me the opportunity to stretch my photography and photograph something other than Dartmoor for a change! If you are a regular reader of the blog, you will know there are two Highland locations I return to again and again: Kilchurn Castle and Glencoe. Both are beautiful, iconic places, and understandably very well photographed.
Photography is not the only thing I love doing when I am in Scotland. I also have a love of walking, running, and cycling. Sometimes I follow routes I know well, but I also enjoy exploring and seeing what I can discover. It was during one of those walks a few years ago that I stumbled across a waterfall that immediately caught my attention. Not only did it look like a wonderful place for a wild swim, but it also sparked my imagination photographically.
Now, I am certainly not claiming to be the first person to discover this hidden gem, but given its remote location it is not a place that sees a huge number of photographers. Walkers, runners, and perhaps even a few cyclists may recognise it immediately when they see the photographs. One thing is certain though, it receives nowhere near the footfall of some of Glencoe’s more famous waterfalls.
Ever since first seeing it, I had wanted to return with my camera, but it has taken until now for me to finally make the long walk back. What a journey it turned out to be. The walk into the glen was beautiful, with constantly changing Highland weather bringing rain, rainbows, and moments of glorious sunshine. The old saying about experiencing four seasons in one day could not have been more accurate.
As I entered the glen, the light was simply stunning. Clouds drifted across the mountains, creating moving patches of light that danced across the landscape. I stopped several times just to breathe it all in. Even if I had come home without a single photograph, I was already in a place that made my heart sing.
The Fall, Scottish Highlands - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 37mm, f/8, 1.6 secs at ISO 80 with Kase Revolution CPL and 3 Stop ND.
Arriving at the waterfall with my camera felt genuinely special. There was no one else around for miles and I had the place entirely to myself. I could slow down, take my time, and really enjoy the process of photography. So much of landscape photography can feel slightly frantic, especially during those fleeting moments of soft light at sunrise or sunset. Here though, tucked away deep in the glen with only the sound of the water for company, time seemed to slow down. Whether I stayed for thirty minutes or three hours, very little would change. It was bliss.
While I am not publicly sharing the exact location, I am very happy to share the experience of photographing it in this video. I hope it gives you a small taste of what it felt like to be there.
I already know there is more work to be done at this waterfall. I would love to refine some of the compositions and experience the place in different seasons, water levels, and conditions. And perhaps next time I will finally bring some shorts and take that swim I keep promising myself.
I cannot wait to return.
The White Fall, Scottish Highlands - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 55mm, f/8, 30 secs at ISO 80 with Kase Revolution CPL and 6 Stop ND.
Purchase Kase Revolution Filters
If you’d like to purchase some filters from Kase you can do so directly using the links below. You can also use the discount code Julian for a 5% discount.
🛒 Kase Revolution Plus Entry Kit - https://kasefilters.com/product/kase-revolution-plus-entry-kit/ref/JulianB/
🛒 Kase Revolution Plus Pro Kit - https://kasefilters.com/product/kase-revolution-plus-pro-kit/ref/JulianB/
Dartmoor: Learning to Build Composition - Layering the Landscape
In this video I show you how layered composition can be used to create depth, balance and atmosphere while photographing the Dartmoor landscape.
Building Dartmoor Compositions Layer by Layer
Strong landscape compositions are often created by building an image layer by layer. Foreground detail, middle ground structure and distant background elements all work together to create depth, balance and atmosphere within a photograph.
In my latest video, Dartmoor: Learning to Build Composition, I share my approach to composition and the thought processes I use to simplify scenes and build more engaging landscape images.
The video covers:
Building foreground interest with rocks, grasses and texture
Using tors and landscape features within the middle ground
Incorporating distant hills, weather and sky into the background
Dartmoor is a landscape filled with natural structure, shape and atmosphere, making it an inspiring place to develop compositional skills. The more time spent carefully observing the relationship between different elements in the landscape, the stronger and more balanced compositions can become.
Whether you are new to landscape photography or refining your creative approach, I hope this video encourages you to think more intentionally about how you build compositions within the landscape.
If you would like to learn more about photographing Dartmoor, I also run photography workshops and 1-2-1 tuition throughout the year.
Learn How to Photograph Dartmoor
If you’d like to learn more Dartmoor photography techniques, both creative and technical, I have a playlist of videos covering a wide range of themes and topics. You can watch the series of videos here.
Dartmoor: Learning to Capture the Landscape - How I Photograph Dartmoor
In this on-location video I share the process behind my Dartmoor photography, from understanding conditions and composition to camera setup.
A Practical Approach to Photographing Dartmoor
Landscape photography is about far more than simply pointing a camera at a beautiful scene. It’s about understanding the environment, responding to changing conditions, making thoughtful creative decisions, and ultimately enjoying the experience of being in the landscape itself. In few places is this more true than it is on Dartmoor!
Im my latest video, Dartmoor: Learning to Capture the Landscape, I share the practical and technical process I use when photographing Dartmoor. Throughout the video I share the fieldcraft and decision-making that shape my approach to landscape photography in one of the UK’s most atmospheric and challenging environments.
In the video I talk about:
Understanding weather and conditions
Choosing lenses with intention
Crafting stronger compositions
Camera setup and field workflow
Reviewing images on-location
Whether you are new to landscape photography or already experienced behind the camera, I hope this video offers both practical insight and encouragement to spend more time with the landscape around you.
If you would like to learn more about photographing Dartmoor, I also run photography workshops and 1-2-1 tuition throughout the year.
Learn How to See Dartmoor
Over many years of photographing this landscape I’ve come to appreciate that technical skill is only one part of the process. Patience, observation and connection to place are equally important. If you like to learn more about this side of photographing Dartmoor then find out more here.
Dartmoor: Learning to See the Landscape - Light, Shape & Composition
In this video I show you how light, shape and composition can be used to see and photograph the Dartmoor landscape more creatively and intentionally.
An Artistic Approach to Photographing Dartmoor
One of the most important parts of landscape photography happens long before the shutter is pressed. Learning to see the landscape by recognising light, shape, balance and atmosphere is at the heart of creating stronger and more personal photograph s.
In my latest video, Dartmoor: Learning to See the Landscape, I share some of the approaches that have helped shape the way I see and respond to Dartmoor over many years of photographing this remarkable landscape.
In the video I talk about
Experiencing and getting to know your location
Using light to shape your images
Looking for lines, curves and natural forms
Exploring scenes with a wide-angle lens
Seeing compositions in a vertical orientation
Dartmoor’s constantly changing conditions make it a landscape that rewards patience and observation. The more time you spend exploring and understanding a place, the more opportunities for compelling compositions you will notice
If you would like to learn more about photographing Dartmoor, I also run photography workshops and 1-2-1 tuition throughout the year.
Learn How to Capture Dartmoor
In the companion video, Dartmoor: Learning to Capture the Landscape, I share the practical and technical process I use when photographing Dartmoor. Throughout the video I share the fieldcraft and decision-making that shape my approach to landscape photography in one of the UK’s most atmospheric and challenging environments. Find out more here.
Dartmoor Tors Compendium 2nd Edition by Josephine Collingwood - On My Bookshelf S08E04
In this episode of On My Bookshelf I take a look at Dartmoor Tors Compendium, Second Edition by Josephine Collingwood.
Dartmoor Tors Compendium – Second Edition
Dartmoor Tors Compendium by Josephine Collingwood is a book that documents Dartmoor in remarkable detail. At 348 pages and containing 765 photographs, this substantial book documents every tor on Dartmoor named by Ordnance Survey and located on accessible land.
Each of the 160 tors is presented across a double page spread with photographs, factual information, and well researched text. Along the way the book also explores the wider Dartmoor landscape, covering geology, archaeology, mining heritage, and many other historical features you might encounter while exploring the moor.
I have owned the revised first edition for many years and it has guided me to countless new locations. The second edition builds on that with new tor listings, updated text, improved mapping, and additional photographs.
If you have an interest in Dartmoor, whether for photography, history, or simply exploring the landscape, this is an excellent reference book and one that I will return to again and again.
In this episode of On My Bookshelf I take a closer look at Dartmoor Tors Compendium 2nd Edition and explain why it remains such an important guide to the tors of Dartmoor.
You can buy Dartmoor Tors Compendium 2nd Edition by Josephine Collingwood directly from the author at https://www.tavicinitypublishing.co.uk/dartmoor-tors-compendium.html
Ethereal By Mark Cornick and Published by Kozu Books - On My Bookshelf S08E03
In this episode of On My Bookshelf I take a look at Ethereal by Mark Cornick, a thoughtful collection of abstract coastal photographs inspired by Cornwall and West Wittering Beach.
Ethereal by Mark Cornick
In ththis episode of On My Bookshelf I take a look at Ethereal by Mark Cornick.
Ethereal is the result of an eight year exploration of abstract coastal photography using intentional camera movement. The book brings together two of Mark’s long term projects. Fathom, photographed on the far western coast of Cornwall, and Timeless Seas, created at West Wittering Beach.
A particularly engaging aspect of the book is the inclusion of Cornick’s field notes. Written while working on location, these short reflections provide context for the photographs and help build a stronger connection between the images and the coastal landscapes that inspired them.
The result is a thoughtful collection of abstract coastal photographs that encourages the reader to slow down and spend time with the work.
You can watch the full video below where I share a closer look at the book.
You can purchase Ethereal by Mark Cornick directly from Kozu Books - https://www.kozubooks.com/books-new/ethereal-by-mark-cornick
Immersive by Bill Ward and Published by Kozu Books - On My Bookshelf S08E02
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I take a look at Immersive by award winning British photographer and actor Bill Ward.
Immersive – A Look at Bill Ward’s Ocean ICM Project
In the latest episode of On My Bookshelf, I take a look at Immersive by Bill Ward, a beautifully produced 88 page, casebound photography book published by Kozu Books.
Many will know Bill for his long acting career, including roles in Coronation Street and Emmerdale, but he has also built a strong reputation as an award winning landscape photographer and a leading voice in Intentional Camera Movement (ICM).
Immersive is Billl’s four year exploration of photographing from within the ocean itself. Wearing a wetsuit and using waterproof housing, Bill places himself in, on, and sometimes beneath breaking waves, creating long exposure ICM images that explore movement, light, texture and energy.
The book is divided into themed chapters including Roots, Crest, Search, Surge and Beneath, each reflecting a different aspect of his relationship with the sea. It is a compelling and thought provoking body of work, and in the video I share my thoughts on the book and why it resonated with me.
If you wish to purchase a copy of Immersive by Bill Ward, you can do so directly from Kozu Books - https://www.kozubooks.com/books-new/immersive-by-bill-ward/
Why PureRAW 6 Is the First Step in My Landscape Workflow
In this video I share how I use DxO PureRAW 6 as the first step in my landscape photography workflow. This is not a traditional feature review. Instead, I want to show you how PureRAW fits into the way I actually work. I have been using PureRAW since version 2, and over time it has become a consistent part of how I prepare my RAW files before I begin editing.
Getting More From My RAW Files with PureRAW 6
Over the past few years I have refined my landscape photography workflow in many small ways. But one of the most important things I have done is what I do with my raw files before I start editing.
I have been using PureRAW since version 2. What began as an experiment gradually became part of my normal process. These days most of my landscape images pass through PureRAW before I open them in Lightroom.
A raw file is not yet an image. It is sensor data that still needs to be interpreted. The way that data is processed has a direct impact on fine detail, shadow recovery, noise, and overall flexibility in the edit. For landscape photography, where textures, distant detail, and subtle tonal transitions matter, that starting point is important.
In this video I walk through exactly where PureRAW 6 fits into my workflow and why I continue to use it. This is not a feature by feature breakdown. It is a practical look at how I prepare my raw files and why that first step matters in landscape photography.
If you are interested in getting more from your raw files I hope the video gives you something useful to consider.
🛒 You can download a free trial or purchase a full/upgrade license directly from DXO - https://www.dxo.com/dxo-pureraw/
And use the discount code JulianBaird15 (new licenses only, sorry!)
Still: A Mindful Practice for Photographers by Paul Sanders - On My Bookshelf S08E01
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I explore Still: A Mindful Practice for Photographers by Paul Sanders, a powerful book about mindfulness, creativity, and finding fulfilment in photography.
A Book That Feels at Home on Dartmoor
If you spend any time photographing Dartmoor, you’ll know it asks something different of you. It’s not always dramatic. It doesn’t always reward you with obvious compositions or spectacular light. Often, it asks for patience, stillness and observation.
That is why Still: A Mindful Practice for Photographers by Paul Sanders feels so relevant.
This isn’t a book about chasing conditions or building a portfolio. It is about slowing down enough to notice how the light moves across granite, how the light reshapes the land, and how your own state of mind influences what you see. Much of what Paul writes about mindfulness, gratitude, and letting go of outcomes.
In this episode of On My Bookshelf video, I talk about why this book resonated with me so strongly, and how its philosophy connects with the way I try to approach my own photography on the moor.
You can watch the full video below.
🛒 You can purchase Still by Paul Sanders here - https://amzn.to/3OKg3Uw
🛒 Signed copies can be purchased directly from Paul Sanders here - https://www.discoverstill.com/prints-books/p/a-mindful-practice-for-photographers-by-paul-sanders-signed
Gitzo Carbon Fibre GT3532 Mountaineer Tripod with GH3382QD Ball Head Kit Review
In this video I review the Gitzo Carbon Fibre GT3532 Mountaineer Tripod and the Gitzo GH3382QD Ball Head Kit (GK3532-82QD). I talk about the engineering, build quality, features and what it’s actually like to use in real landscape photography situations.
A Professional Tripod Built to Last
Answering the question “which tripod should I buy” is becoming increasingly difficult. Over the years the number of manufacturers selling tripods has gone through the roof. There is everything from simple cheap aluminium tripods costing less that £100 al the way up to more complex tripods with self-levelling technology. While they all might do roughly the same thing, how they go about it, how stable your camera will be and how long it will last all vary greatly from tripod to tripod.
I have talked about a number of tripods on this website, from budget friendly tripods to heavy duty carbon fibre tripods. But there is one tripod that has remained a constant in my kit bag, and that is my Gitzo Mountaineer GT2532. I purchased it over 7 years ago at The Photography Show in Birmingham. Even though I got a show discount, it was still expensive, but it has lasted and not let me down.
When Gitzo asked if I wanted to review the model up from my GT2532, the GT3532, I was more than happy to talk about a product range that I have so much experience with. With 7 years experience with the GT2532 I knew I could add some extra value to a video review.
So here it is, my review of the Gitzo GT3532 Carbon Fibre Mountaineer Tripod and GH3382QD Ball Head. Let me know what you think in the comments below.
More Information and Purchase Links
🛒 Purchase the Gitzo Mountaineer GK3532-82QD kit - from Wex or Amazon
🛒 Purchase the Gitzo GT3532 Mountaineer Tripod only - from Wex or from Amazon
🛒 Purchase the Gitzo GH3382QD Ball Head only - from Wex or from Amazon
✔️ Read the full specifications of the Gitzo Mountaineer GK3532-82QD kit (tripod and head) - https://www.gitzo.com/uk-en/tripod-kit-mountaineer-series-3-3-sections-gk3532-82qd/
✔️ Specifications Gitzo Mountaineer GT3532 tripod only - https://www.gitzo.com/uk-en/tripod-mountaineer-series-3-3-sections-gt3532/
✔️ Specifications Gitzo GH3382QD Ball Head only - https://www.gitzo.com/uk-en/center-ball-head-quick-release-series-3-gh3382qd/
✔️ See wall the tripods in the Mountaineer series https://www.gitzo.com/uk-en/tripods/mountaineer/
When Dartmoor Turns Purple - Photographing the Magic of Heather Season
For a few short weeks each year, Dartmoor transforms into a purple landscape as the heather blooms across the tors. This video follows my journey across the moor, through sunrise, sunset, changing weather, and shifting conditions to photograph the heather at its absolute best.
The Changing Seasons of Dartmoor
The UK is a special place for landscape photographers, and I feel fortunate to live here. Every season dramatically changes the feel of the landscape and provides photographers with both opportunities and challenges. Those seasonal changes can also be seen at a local level where areas of the UK celebrate special natural events such as bluebells in Dorset, the autumn colours of the New Forest, or snowdrops in north Yorkshire.
But for me, the local seasonal event that I get most excited about occurs in late summer when the heather blooms across Dartmoor. I’m slightly biased as Dartmoor is my local area, but the purple heather adds a splash of colour to an already dramatic landscape. The other thing I like about the heather season on Dartmoor is that it lasts. Peak bluebells on Dartmoor, or thrift on the Cornish coast might only last a couple of weeks, but the heather will stay strong for 6 to 8 weeks. The longer something is about, the more opportunities there is to photograph it.
With this knowledge, I decided that I would focus my efforts this summer on capturing a series of strong heather themed photographs. Even if the weather was poor for a week, or I was away, I'd still have plenty of opportunities to get up onto Dartmoor and photograph locations I know are good for heather, or perhaps even discover some new ones.
So how did I get on? Well, I didn't get out as much as I wanted (no surprise there!), but I did get out enough times to create a collection of Dartmoor heather photos. It was a decent season, lasting nearly 8 weeks and I'm happy with the results. I do however appreciate that heather season finished a couple of months ago, but I'm finally ready to share it with you, and the photographs I captured. Enjoy!
Do you have a favourite seasonal event to photograph? Let me know in the comments below.
My Dartmoor Heather Collection for 2025
Haytor Heather, Dartmoor National Park - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 30mm, f/13, 1/50 sec at ISO 800
Creating a Black and White Landscape Portfolio with Fotospeed DUO Papers & Spring Back Binders
In this video I continue my exploration of black and white landscape photography by creating a portfolio of prints using Fotospeed DUO papers and a Fotospeed Spring Back Binder.
Black and White Landscape Photography - Part 2
A few months ago, I published a video where I talked about my journey as a black and white landscape photographer. Something I never thought I would say, but hey, we all grow and change as photographers. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not exclusively a black and white photographer now, it’s just that capturing black and white while on location is something I now think about.
In this follow up video I’m going to take a selection of the black and white photographs I’ve been capturing and printing them to make my first black and white landscape photography portfolio. It was something I always intended on doing and I’m very happy with the results. Watch the video below to find out why!
Useful Links and Information
Watch Part 1
🎞️ Watch The Dance of Light and Shadow - How Black and White is Changing My Landscape Photography - Part 1
Fotospeed Papers
Use the discount code Julian15 and get 15% off Fotospeed papers at Fotospeed.com
🛒 Purchase Fotospeed Art Smooth DUO 210 - https://fotospeed.com/fotospeed-art-smooth-duo-210-short-grain.html
🛒 Purchase Fotospeed High White Smooth Lite DUO 225 - https://fotospeed.com/high-white-smooth-duo-225.html
🛒 Purchase Fotospeed Matt DUO 240 https://fotospeed.com/matt-duo-240.html
🛒Fotospeed Spring Back Binders - https://fotospeed.com/presentation/springback-binders.html
More of my printing videos worth watching:
🎞️ Fotospeed Spring Back Binders
🎞️ My Canon Pro-1100 review and setup video
Other Useful Links
🔗 Fotospeed Art of Printing eBook - https://fotospeed.com/ebook/artofprinting
🔗 Fotospeed Generic Profiles for the Canon Pro-1100 - https://fotospeed.com/profiles/printer/ink/ink/62/
🔗 Fotospeed Custom Profiling Service - https://fotospeed.com/support/
Best Photography Books to Gift Now or Anytime! Inspiration for Every Photographer!
Looking for the perfect photography gift or a new book to inspire your own creativity? In this special edition of On My Bookshelf, I’m sharing 10 amazing photography books worth gifting (or keeping for yourself).
Finally! A Video with My Gift Recommendations!
Every year as Christmas approaches I say to myself that I’m going to join the bandwagon and publish a photography gift list. And every year I don’t. Until this year that is when I put it on my task list and scheduled it in for filming nice and early.
There are lots of themes I could have picked for my photography related gift list, but I wanted to do something that was related to me and my channel. The On My Bookshelf series on my channel is special to me as I’m passionate about photography books, so doing a gift list of photography books made perfect sense.
If you are looking for a photography related gift for yourself, or the photography lover in your life, then my list of photography books is just what you need. And best of all, you can buy photography books all year round so no need to wait for Christmas.
I hope you enjoy my choices and happy gift shopping!
🎞️ Watch all the episodes of On My Bookshelf that feature the books in this video in this playlist.
🛒 Purchase Visually Speaking - Mastering the Art of Photography by Ted Forbes https://amzn.to/3GfNtqo or find other retailers - https://www.tedforbes.com/book
🛒 Purchase From Dawn to Dusk: Mastering the Light in Landscape Photography, by Ross Hoddinott and Mark Bauer - https://amzn.to/4jPF8Ib
🛒 Purchase Landscape Photography Workshop (Updated Edition) by Ross Hoddinott and Mark Bauer - https://amzn.to/3qBTHIW
🛒 Purchase The Art of Landscape Photography (Updated Edition) by Ross Hoddinott and Mark Bauer - https://amzn.to/45Z3WHn
🛒 Purchase any fotoVUE guidebook and use the discount code JULIAN to get 20% off all books at https://fotovue.com/shop/
🛒 Purchase Sand by Anthony Lamb from Kozu Books - https://www.kozubooks.com/books-new/sand-by-anthony-lamb
🛒 Purchase Stillness in Motion by Sally Mason from Kozu Books -https://www.kozubooks.com/books-new/stillness-in-motion-by-sally-mason
🛒 Purchase 40 Farms by Amy Bateman - https://amzn.to/4r53LoL
🛒 Purchase Gemini and Mercury Remastered by Andy Saunders - https://amzn.to/3J66M71
🛒 Purchase Apollo Remastered by Andy Saunders - https://amzn.to/4nWQcFQ
🛒 Purchase The Great Wilderness directly from Alex Nail - https://www.alexnail.com/great-wilderness-book/
🛒 Purchase Headlands by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/books/headlands/
🛒 Purchase Kingdom by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/books/kingdom/
🛒 Purchase Beara by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/product/beara/
Going Greener with Fotospeed's Natural Smooth 310 Paper
In this video, I put Fotospeed’s Natural Smooth 310 to the test. The paper is made from 34% hemp, 33% recycled materials, and is produced with sustainability in mind but how does it actually perform when printing photographs?
Part 2 of Going Greener with my Photography
A few months ago, I published a video in which I used public transport rather than my car to reach one of my landscape photography locations. I wanted to see if using the train was a practical option. It would be a small change, but it might be a more sustainable one. You can see how I got on and what I concluded in the video.
For my next small change I wanted to take a look a new paper from Fotospeed, their Natural Smooth Cotton 310. Not only is this smooth matt paper part of their signature range, it is also Fotospeed’s first sustainably sourced paper.
Using a sustainable paper for printing is hardly going to save the world, but if I make a lot of small changes they can add up. But the question is, will using a paper made of hemp and recycled materials compromise the print quality? To find out I put the paper to test, and you can find out the results in this video!
Use the discount code Julian15 and get 15% off Fotospeed papers at Fotospeed.com
🛒 Purchase Fotospeed Natural Smooth 310
🛒 Fotospeed Spring Back Binders
More of my printing videos worth watching:
🎞️ Showcase Your Photos with Spring Back Binders
🎞️ My Canon Pro-1100 review and setup video
Other Useful Links
🎞️ Fotospeed's Natural Smooth 310 video
Headlands by Norman McCloskey - On My Bookshelf S07E12
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I’m looking at one of the most highly anticipated books of 2025, Headlands by Norman McCloskey. Will this follow-up to Beara and Kingdom be the crown of the trilogy?
Setting the Standard for a Landscape Photography Book
Over the years I’ve made no secret about how much I like Norman McCloskey’s earlier two books, Beara and Kingdom. They are exceptional not only for the photographs in them, but also the presentation, layout, and sequencing. It’s a tough formula to get right, and I can only think of one other photographer who excels in book production. Can you guess who that is?
So, when Norman teased the release of his fourth book and third in a trilogy along with Beara and Kingdom, I couldn’t wait to see what he would produce. But sometimes when you get so excited about something and your expectations rise, the real-life experience can sometimes leave you disappointed and flat.
When my copy of Headlands dropped through the letter box, I was a little apprehensive. Should I have been? Let’s find out in the latest episode of On My Bookshelf.
Purchase Norman’s Books
✔️ Visit Norman's website and sign up for his newsletter - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/
🛒 Purchase Headlands by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/books/headlands/
🛒 Purchase Kingdom by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/books/kingdom/
🛒 Purchase Beara by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/product/beara/
🛒 Purchase Parklight by Norman McCloskey - https://www.normanmccloskey.com/product/parklight/
🎞️ Watch the episodes of On My Bookshelf for Beara and Kingdom here -
🎞️ Watch Ólafur Arnalds & Talos - We Didn't Know We Were Ready (feat. Niamh Regan & Ye Vagabonds) -
Gemini and Mercury Remastered by Andy Saunders - On My Bookshelf S07E11
In this episode of On My Bookshelf, I look at Gemini and Mercury Remastered by Andy Saunders, the acclaimed follow-up to his bestselling Apollo Remastered.
Remastered Again!
Back in series 6 of On My Bookshelf I looked at a book called Apollo Remastered by Andy Saunders. I loved it so much that it’s now up there with some of my all-time favourite photography books. It’s probably not surprising given I am fascinated about space and space travel!
When I heard that Andy Saunders was creating Gemini and Mercury Remastered, I couldn’t have pre-ordered the book quick enough. I knew very little about those early space flights that were the precursor to the Apollo missions, and I hoped this book would not only fill in a gap in my knowledge but also have stunningly restored photographs.
Now that I have it, has it disappointed? Let’s find out in this episode of On My Bookshelf.
🛒 You can purchase the hardcover, Kindle or audiobook version of Gemini and Mercury Remastered by Andy Saunders - https://amzn.to/3J66M71
🛒 You can also purchase Apollo Remastered by Andy Saunders - https://amzn.to/4nWQcFQ
Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III Review
Looking for the best camera backpack for outdoor and event photography? In this video, I review the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III, one of Lowepro’s most popular modular camera bags designed for professional photographers and content creators. But is it the best option?
I’m struggling with this one…
Bags, bags, bags. I have a lot of camera bags. I almost have one for every situation now. But I also recognise that because I have a photography-based YouTube channel with a reasonable reach, brands will ask me to review their products. I don’t say yes to everything. In fact, I more often than not say no. Either the product isn’t related to photography, or I have no use for it.
There is something about camera bags though. Someone how I can find a reason to test another because there is a “gap” in my bag line up. So, when Lowepro asked to try out their Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III I said yes. I’m not sure what gap I was trying to fill but I’m glad I decided to look at this one because it’s very good. However, I found myself struggling with one particular part of this video review. What? You’ll just have to watch to find out.
✔️ Learn more about the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III - https://www.lowepro.com/uk-en/protactic-bp-350-aw-iii-lp37505-pww/ or the 450 version - https://www.lowepro.com/uk-en/protactic-bp-450-aw-iii-lp37483-pww/?___store=lowepro_uk_en
🛒 Purchase the Lowepro ProTactic BP 350 AW III from Amazon - https://amzn.to/46r36Ew or WEX - https://wex.pxf.io/JK666E
🛒 Purchase the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW III from Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Wa1xG4 or WEX - https://wex.pxf.io/WyeWm3
Please note that these are affiliate links (but not paid links or ads). By buying through these links I may receive a commission for the sale. This has no effect on the price for you.
✔️ Check out my review of the Manfrotto Befree GT PRO Carbon Tripod - https://julianbaird.com/blog/2024/10/22/manfrotto-befree-gt-pro-carbon-tripod-review
🎞️ Check out my review of the Lowepro PhotoSport Backpack PRO AW III
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 Review and Setup Guide
Are you thinking about purchasing the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100? Or have you just purchased it and want to know how to set it up? In this video I’ll show you how to set it up, make your first print, use ICC profiles, talk about ink costs and give you some ideas for displaying your prints.
Going Bigger and Being More Cost Effective with the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100
If you’ve been reading this blog or watching my YouTube channel over the years you’ll know what a passion I have for printing. My love for printing was further fuelled at the weekend when I attended and hosted Fotofest in Bristol. It was a fantastic event and being in a community of like-minded photographers reminded me of how important printing is to so many people.
A few months ago I changed from a Canon imagePRO-GRAF PRO-300 to the new Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100. There was nothing wrong with the print quality of the Pro-300 but I wanted to have the capability to print A2 and to make my ink consumption more cost effective.
Over those last few months, I’ve been putting the printer through it’s paces and I’m now ready to share my PRO-1100 video. So no matter if you are thinking about purchasing a Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100, or have you just purchased one and want to know how to set it up, my video should have you covered. In my video -
I'll share the key details on the Pro-1100.
Tell you why I bought it and where from
Show you how to set both the hardware and software
Talk you through how to make your first print
How to manage paper types and ICC profiles using Canon’s Media Configuration Utility
Show you how to find out how much your prints cost using Canon’s Accounting Manager software
I’ll Print some glorious A2 images
Show you some options for displaying your prints.
And finally share my thoughts and comments on this printer
I hope you found this video useful. If you did or just have a question or comment, do let me know below in the comments section.
You can of course expect lots more printing content from me, so please make sure you stay tuned to my YouTube channel and the blog. Thanks for watching and all just below you’ll find links to everything I mentioned in the video,
Useful Links from the Video
Purchase the Pro-1100, Inks and Tech Specs
🛒 If you are considering a purchase of the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 you can do so from Fotospeed - https://fotospeed.com/canon-pro-1100-a2-printer-12-inks.html
🛒 Canon Pro-1100 inks - https://fotospeed.com/printers-inks/desktop-printer-inks.html?default_brand=Canon&dit_printer=Canon%20Pro%201100
🔗 Check out the full specifications of the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 - https://www.canon.co.uk/printers/imageprograf-pro-1100/
More of my printing videos worth watching
🎞️ Fotospeed Spring Back Binders - https://youtu.be/IRXr6VuRYwE
🎞️ Designing a Custom Frame from Picture Frames Express - https://youtu.be/FJYOckTLbyA?si=RSoVSVb7z6Ii91gu&t=443
🎞️ How to Become a Fearless Printer - https://youtu.be/mbB1WdLFF_s?si=pI620VKr0qnXEXix
🎞️ Using a Nikon D80 to Create an A3+ Print - https://youtu.be/6X_vK5lts5c
🎞️ Why and How I Calibrate My Monitor - https://youtu.be/ozPuGrXQfeU
Other Useful Links
🔗 Fotospeed Generic Profiles for the Canon Pro-1100 - https://fotospeed.com/profiles/printer/ink/ink/62/
🔗 Fotospeed Custom Profiling Service - https://fotospeed.com/support/
🔗 Fotospeed Art of Printing eBook - https://fotospeed.com/ebook/artofprinting
🔗 ICC Profile Toolkit - https://icc-profile-toolkit.software.informer.com/
🔗 Canon PRO-1100 sotware including Professional Print & Layout, Media Configuration Utility, and Accounting Manager - https://www.canon.co.uk/support/business/products/wide-format-printers/imageprograf/pro-series/imageprograf-pro-1100.html
Papers Used in this Video
Use the discount code Julian15 and get 15% off Fotospeed papers at Fotospeed.com
🛒 Fotospeed Test Packs - https://fotospeed.com/paper/test-packs.html
🛒 Fotospeed PF Lustre 190 - https://fotospeed.com/lustre-190.html
🛒 Fotospeed NST BW 315 - https://fotospeed.com/nst-bright-white-315.html
🛒 Fotospeed Smooth Cotton 300 - https://fotospeed.com/smooth-cotton-300.html
🛒 Fotospeed Platinum Cotton 305 - https://fotospeed.com/platinum-cotton-305.html
🛒 Fotospeed Natural Smooth 310 - https://fotospeed.com/fotospeed-natural-smooth-310.html
🛒 Fotospeed Legacy Gloss 325 - https://fotospeed.com/legacy-gloss-325.html
🛒 Fotospeed Matt Baryta 310 - https://fotospeed.com/fotospeed-matt-baryta-310.html
🛒 Fotospeed Platinum Baryta 300 - https://fotospeed.com/platinum-baryta-300.html
🛒 Fotospeed Panoramic Paper - https://fotospeed.com/papers/panoramic-papers.html
🛒 Canon A3 Pro Luster Photo Paper - https://amzn.to/4g6dINz
🛒 Canon GP-501 Glossy Photo Paper 4x6"/10x15cm (100 Sheets) - https://amzn.to/3I3i1fW
Print Display Options
🛒 Fotospeed Spring Back Binder - https://fotospeed.com/presentation/springback-binders.html
🛒 A2 White Self-Adhesive Foamboard - https://amzn.to/4oVsqLc
🛒 A3 Self-Adhesive White Foamboard - https://amzn.to/4m0EWGP
🛒 A4 White Self-Adhesive Foamboard - https://amzn.to/4lSwLvX
🛒 3M Command Picture Hanging Strips - https://amzn.to/4p3SYtT
🛒 Picture Frames Express - https://www.pictureframesexpress.co.uk/
🛒 Ikea MOSSLANDA Picture ledge - https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/p/mosslanda-picture-ledge-white-90292103/
🛒 Ikea Drawer unit on castors, white, 67x66 cm - https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/p/alex-drawer-unit-on-castors-white-80485423/
Please note that some of these links are affiliate links (but not paid links or ads). By buying through these links I may receive a commission for the sale. This has no effect on the price for you.
Trevose Head - An Iconic South West Coast Path Location on the North Cornwall Coast
If there's one place to get light from the setting sun, it's the coast. With such a small gap between the clouds and the horizon, will my trusty friend Trevose Head give me the light I'm looking for?
Trevose Head - I Just Keep Going Back
In my last blog post I talked about how I was going to spend a bit less time on Dartmoor and start reconnecting with the South West Coast Path. Just after writing that though I started a new mini project on Dartmoor! What can I say. When you are inspired, you’re inspired!
The start of a new Dartmoor project however does not mean I’ve decided not to spend more time photographing the coast. Far from it. I’ve just decided to give up on a little sleep!
When I was considering which coastal locations to photograph while I reconnect with the South West Coast Path, one location stood out as one that I must revisit. Trevose Head is probably one of my favourite locations on the South West Coast Path. It’s a dramatic bit of coastline with crashing waves, sharp rocks, cliffs, and a lighthouse. It also shoots well at sunset just about all year round!
With that all said, it wasn’t my original plan to go there, but the weather conditions weren’t favouring my original choice of The Rumps. While I was eating my fish and chips (a mandatory treat when visiting Cornwall), I was trying to think of a location that might work even when the sky was heavy with cloud. It didn’t take long. There was only one choice and that was Trevose Head.
Photographs on Trevose Head on the South West Coast Path
Trevose Head #1, South West Coast Path, North Cornwall - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 24mm, f/13, 0.4 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL.
Trevose Head #2, South West Coast Path, North Cornwall - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 19mm, f/11, 5 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL and ND.
Trevose Head #3, South West Coast Path, North Cornwall - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 21mm, f/11, 6 sec at ISO 64, Kase Filters CPL and ND.
Photographing The Daymark - Devon's Coastal Beacon, Landmark and Icon
In this video I head to the south Devon coast on a beautiful summers evening to photograph one of the South West Coast Path's best known landmarks, The Daymark.
Back to the Coast (Nearly)
I’ve been exploring and photographing Dartmoor extensively over the last few years and I loved every minute of it. Well, nearly every minute of it! However, there is so much more to discover in the south west of the UK. The South West Coast Path is perhaps the most obvious choice, and with over 630 miles of coastline to explore, I’d have no shortage of places to go.
So, it’s time for me to branch out and learn more about the South West Coast Path. I have of course photographed some of paths great locations like Trevose Head in Cornwall, but I’ve never spent a significant amount of time exploring what I expect to be a treasure trove of photography locations.
I’m not giving up on Dartmoor, far from it, but I do want to expand my horizons.
To start my South West Coast Path journey, I’m going to revisit a few of the locations I already know, starting with The Daymark, a location I haven’t photographed for some time. So why not join me in my latest video as I explore and photograph The Daymark. And yes, I know it’s not directly on the coast path, but it’s close enough!
Landscape Photographs of The Daymark - South West Coast Path
Daymark Tower #1, Devon, South West Coast Path - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S at 23mm, f/13, 1/10 sec at ISO 64.
Daymark Tower #2, Devon, South West Coast Path - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 54mm, f/13, 1/60 sec at ISO 400.
Daymark Tower #3, Devon, South West Coast Path - Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S at 24mm, f/13, 1/5 sec at ISO 400, single image crop at 6:17.